I CANNOT agree more with your Comment column, headed “Support our soldiers” (Echo, April 27), about special forces, such as the SAS, to benefit from a change in military strategy.

My son is a Royal Marine and I can tell you that he himself has spent more than £1,200 on equipment because what is issued is not good enough.

He does not earn a great amount and it is hard for him to afford this expense along with his accommodation and food costs.

When they try to comment on this they are told that it is an honour to serve in the Marines and it is not about the money – but they have to live, same as everyone else.

While the Marines are not allowed to complain, as a mother, I can.

My son is very proud to be in this elite force and I am proud of him, so why does this country let down its most dedicated elite?

It asks them to do things which the public never knows about and then pays them peanuts.

Pity they could not have the John Lewis list to get things they need and two per cent of MPs’ expenses would be acceptable.

I know who does more for this country – and it is not MPs.

Name and address supplied.